If you are a young South African seeking a career in logistics, shipping or international trade, the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) Learnership Programme 2026 offers a rare chance to study, earn a stipend and gain real‑world experience right now.
What is the MSC Learnership Programme 2026?
MSC runs a three‑year learnership that mixes classroom learning with on‑the‑job training. It is built for the maritime and logistics sector – a field that moves South Africa’s trade and creates many jobs.
- Company: Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC)
- Industry: Maritime, Shipping and Logistics
- Duration: 36 months (three 12‑month phases)
- Qualification: Nationally recognised certificates for each phase
- Locations: Durban, Pretoria, Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha), Johannesburg
Who can apply?
Applicants must meet the following minimum criteria:
- South African Matric certificate with at least a C aggregate, including Mathematics
- Computer literacy and good communication skills
- Hard‑working, reliable and willing to learn
- Age under 25 years
- Member of a designated group (as defined by the learnership policy)
What will you gain?
The programme awards three separate qualifications:
- Phase 1 – National Certificate in International Trade: global markets, import/export procedures and trade documentation.
- Phase 2 – National Certificate in Freight Forwarding & Customs Compliance: freight operations, customs legislation and border procedures.
- Phase 3 – Further Education and Training Certificate in Shipping: shipping operations, port procedures and cargo management.
In addition to the certificates you will receive:
- Fully funded tuition
- Monthly stipend (paid throughout the three years)
- Annual performance bonus (based on attendance, assessments and conduct)
- Practical workplace experience in MSC’s South African offices
- Transferable technical skills (trade documentation, freight forwarding, customs compliance, shipping administration)
- Professional skills such as teamwork, problem‑solving and customer service
How to apply – step by step
- Gather the required documents: Matric certificate (or proof of results), ID copy, proof of residency, and a recent CV.
- Visit the official MSC application page: Apply for the MSC Learnership Programme 2026 here.
- Choose the location where you are willing to stay for the full 36 months (Durban, Pretoria, Port Elizabeth or Johannesburg).
- Complete the online form, upload your documents and submit before the closing date.
- Wait for a response – successful candidates will be contacted for an interview.
Tips for a stronger application
- Keep your CV up to date and clearly list your Matric results, especially Mathematics.
- Highlight any computer skills (MS Office, internet research, basic data entry).
- If you have informal work experience (family business, school projects), mention it.
- Double‑check that all contact details are correct.
- Apply only for the city where you can remain for the entire three‑year period – transfers are not allowed.
- Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid last‑minute technical issues.
Next steps
Take a few minutes today to collect your documents and draft your CV. The MSC Learnership Programme is competitive, so an early, accurate application improves your chances. If you are selected, you will earn three nationally recognised qualifications, gain paid work experience and open doors to a lasting career in South Africa’s growing logistics and maritime sectors.
